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Crispy popcorn shrimp served with a dipping sauce on a plate.

Popcorn Shrimp

Crispy, bite-sized shrimp coated in a seasoned breading and fried until golden, perfect for dipping and sharing.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Shrimp and Coating
  • 1 pound small shrimp (41 to 50 count), peeled, deveined, tails removed, patted dry Opt for shrimp that are bite-sized and cook quickly.
  • 3/4 cup all purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup cornstarch This is the crispiness secret.
  • 2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt Plus more to finish.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce Optional but really good.
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs Panko gives extra crunch.
  • Neutral frying oil (canola or peanut oil) Enough for 2 inches in your pan.
  • Lemon wedges For serving.
  • Chopped parsley Optional, for garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat the oil: Pour oil into a heavy pot or deep skillet with about 2 inches of oil. Heat to 350°F.
  2. Mix the dry coating: In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, Old Bay, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix the wet coating: In a second bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, and hot sauce (if using).
  4. Set up the panko: Put panko in a third bowl and optionally season with a pinch of salt.
  5. Coat the shrimp: Toss shrimp in the seasoned flour, dip in the egg mixture, then press into panko.
Cooking
  1. Fry in small batches at 350°F for 2 to 3 minutes, until golden and crisp, stirring or flipping once.
  2. Move cooked shrimp to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate. Sprinkle with salt while hot.
Serving
  1. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

Keep oil hot and fry in small batches for the best results. To reheat, use oven or air fryer methods to retain crunch.